What Is 1947 United States Women's Open

Overview

The 1947 United States Women's Open marked the second official edition of the championship, solidifying its place in women's professional golf. Held at the Spokane Country Club in Spokane, Washington, the event attracted top female golfers of the era during a formative period for the sport.

Organized by the United States Golf Association (USGA), the tournament was a key milestone in establishing a national championship for women. Louise Suggs emerged victorious, claiming her first U.S. Women's Open title and cementing her status as one of the game's rising stars.

• Louise Suggs won the tournament with a 72-hole total of 299 (+11), showcasing consistency across all four rounds.
• The event was played from June 26 to June 28, 1947, making it one of the earliest summer editions in the tournament's history.
• Spokane Country Club, a par-73 course, presented challenging conditions due to its hilly terrain and narrow fairways.
• Suggs defeated runner-up Betty Jameson by three strokes, overcoming a strong final-round performance from the amateur.
• This victory marked Suggs’ first of three U.S. Women's Open titles, contributing to her eventual 60 professional wins in her career.

How It Works

The 1947 U.S. Women's Open followed a standard 72-hole stroke play format, with the lowest total score determining the champion. Players competed over four days, with each round testing precision, endurance, and course management.

• Format: The tournament used a 72-hole stroke play system. The golfer with the lowest cumulative score after four rounds won the title.
• Eligibility: Open to both amateur and professional female golfers. Betty Jameson, an amateur, finished second, highlighting competitive depth.
• Course Setup: Spokane Country Club was set up at 6,325 yards with a par of 73, longer than many contemporary women's courses.
• Scoring Conditions: Dry weather led to firm greens, increasing difficulty. The winning score of +11 reflected the tough setup.
• Prize Fund: The total purse was modest by modern standards, with Suggs earning approximately $500 for her victory.
• Historical Context: The 1947 Open was only the second official edition, following Patty Berg’s 1946 win, helping establish the USGA’s women’s championship.

Comparison at a Glance

A comparison of the 1947 U.S. Women's Open with later editions reveals significant evolution in format, competition, and scale.

The table illustrates dramatic growth in prize money and scoring efficiency over time. While Suggs’ +11 was competitive in 1947, modern players regularly post double-digit under par, reflecting advances in equipment, training, and course conditioning.

Why It Matters

The 1947 U.S. Women's Open was a foundational moment in the development of professional women's golf, helping legitimize the sport during its early years. It provided a national stage for elite female athletes at a time when opportunities were limited.

• Louise Suggs’ victory elevated her profile, leading to her co-founding the LPGA in 1950 alongside other pioneers.
• The tournament demonstrated that women’s golf could draw public interest, paving the way for future sponsorships and media coverage.
• Competing at Spokane Country Club brought national attention to the Pacific Northwest as a golf destination.
• The event helped standardize rules and formats for women’s majors, influencing future USGA championship planning.
• Amateur Betty Jameson’s strong finish highlighted the competitive balance between pros and amateurs in early women’s golf.
• Historically, the 1947 Open preserved the legacy of early female athletes, many of whom are now celebrated in the World Golf Hall of Fame.

Today, the U.S. Women's Open is one of the most prestigious events in women's sports, with roots tracing back to tournaments like the 1947 edition. Its evolution reflects broader progress in gender equity and athletic professionalism.